Larlin: Sondheim

---

by Sara Ramirez

Brighton’s rising alt-rock group Larlin continues impressing listeners with their new release, Sondheim. At its core, the track delves into the effects of a person becoming so disconnected from themselves that they rely on other’s perceptions of themselves.

Artwork: Olivia Ruggiero

With lyrics like “I try and focus on a feeling, but I am hiding in the motions, staying safe on the sideline” Sondheim transforms feelings of detachment into something communal, letting listeners know that they are not alone. Losing your identity is a real thing that isn’t commonly spoken about, but Larin broke the norms and cathartically explains how it's like “watching the years go by”. Sondheim has the ability to embody disassociation and how it can consume you until you’re left an empty shell of yourself - something many people can relate to.

Credit: Lewis Foord

Larlin has a distinct sound to them, combining shoegaze with indie pop; they master layering

guitars whilst providing captivating production, topped with frontwoman Maryann Hoar’s

vocals. It's cinematic, intimate, relatable, and raw. It is no surprise that they have received radio play on BBC and have filled venues across Brighton; their growing fanbase is well deserved. Their ability to connect with listeners, both lyrically and musically, is one of their most impressive traits and a key reason why their music resonates with the audience. Their newest song is hard-hitting, but so emotionally complex.

For a relatively new band formed in 2024, Larlin demonstrates a striking maturity when

it comes to their sound. Their ability to combine atmospheric songwriting with real passion

suggests a group with enormous potential. “Sondheim” feels less like a breakthrough single and more like evidence that Larlin are already making a spot for themselves within the world of modern alternative rock, leaving an everlasting impression on listeners' hearts. They are

destined to be great, with new music and more show dates on the way; Larlin is a band worth keeping an eye out for.